US Leaders Discuss Need For COVID Booster Shots

The FDA said Americans younger than 65 do not need a Pfizer booster shot right now. A decision on boosters for senior citizens and people at high risk for COVID could be on the way soon. 

The Biden administration was hoping to start booster shots this week for all Americans but an FDA panel rejected the proposal from Pfizer, citing a lack of sufficient data on the safety and efficacy of the measure. 

The CDC will meet Wednesday to debate when boosters should begin rolling out. 

Some Oklahomans who have a weakened immune system have already received a third dose. Health officials said their number one goal is still getting more Oklahomans vaccinated. 

Currently, 46% of Oklahomans are fully vaccinated. 

"You do not see a drop in antibodies for several months. The other thing that you have to remember is that even if there is a 2- or 3-fold drop in antibodies over 6-8 months, you may still have ten times as many antibodies you need to protect yourself," said Dr. Douglas Drevets, the Chief of Infectious Diseases at OU Health. 

Pfizer announced Monday that their vaccine works in children ages 5-11. This age group has seen a spike in cases with the start of school. 

Pfizer will be seeking authorization for this age group soon.